Networking
/ˈnɛtwəːkɪŋ/
noun
the action or process of interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts.
Is networking necessary?
There are reasons to say that networking is important and that it has its purpose. Take it is a form of help for you, from you to you. Networking can help you grow professionally and personally. It helps in improving your skills set and your career development by building your contact list. You can find anyone to network with - from strangers, co-workers to your closest family members.
However, it is not necessary to dive into all conferences or seminars just to network with people. You can start small by going into the many online platforms that are available at your fingertips now such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and many more. You'll be amazed at how much you can save yourself from spending and still reach out to many people out there simply by going through the different online platforms.
Another way to network is to get yourself a community. The simplest is by getting into a co-working space. Being in a co-working space broadens your circle as you are exposed to people from different industries, whether big or small. Keep in mind that connections can be made anywhere with anyone.
Here in TradingPLC, we have our private networking event Quarterly Whisky Night. Through networking session with our co-workers and members of the co-working space, we learn about them and the work they do. Being in a co-working space not only provide you comfort and convenience but also help you to reach out to people and grow your contact list. It does not matter if you are of different industry background. There is always something to learn about others!
The purpose of networking is not only to your own advantage. It is best to see it in other perspective. Apart from building mutual beneficial relationship that benefits you in career development or progression, networking boost your morale as well. If you are naturally not an outspoken person, this can help to build confidence in yourself. When networking with someone, you share your knowledge and experience with them, vice versa. Networking also helps you stay in trend and keep you updated on the current events of different industries.
Network with people for professional and personal growth.
Start connecting with the people around you.
Join a co-working space and be part of the community.
You will be amazed at what you can get from networking!
